Jalapeno Popper Wontons combine the creamy, spicy goodness of classic jalapeno poppers with the crispy, crunchy texture of wonton wrappers. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or any time you’re craving a savory snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Here’s everything you need to know about making these irresistible jalapeno popper wontons.
Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Wontons
To make jalapeno popper wontons, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapenos (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Wonton wrappers (about 12-15 pieces)
- Vegetable oil for frying (or you can bake them for a healthier alternative)
Instructions for Making Jalapeno Popper Wontons
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, cooked bacon (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until well-combined. The cream cheese should be creamy and easy to spread, holding all the ingredients together.
- Fill the Wontons: Lay out your wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 1-2 teaspoons of the jalapeno popper filling in the center of each wonton. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the wontons from tearing.
- Seal the Wontons: To seal the wontons, lightly wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle shape or fold the corners together into a pocket. Press firmly along the edges to seal.
- Fry or Bake:
- Frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of wonton wrapper into the oil—if it bubbles, the oil is ready), carefully drop the wontons into the oil. Fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the wontons from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the filled wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the wontons with cooking spray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Serve: Serve the jalapeno popper wontons hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese, or a tangy buffalo sauce. They are the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy!
Why You’ll Love Jalapeno Popper Wontons
- Flavor Explosion: The creamy filling is perfectly balanced with the heat from the jalapenos, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. The addition of bacon gives a smoky touch that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Versatile: Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving a tasty snack, these wontons are sure to please. You can even prepare them ahead of time and freeze them for later use.
- Crispy Perfection: Whether fried or baked, the wontons turn out crispy on the outside while staying soft and creamy on the inside. This contrast in texture makes every bite satisfying.
Tips for the Best Jalapeno Popper Wontons
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapenos. You can also substitute the jalapenos with mild peppers like banana peppers or sweet bell peppers.
- Air Fryer Option: For an even healthier alternative, you can cook the wontons in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. This method uses less oil and still gives a crispy result.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling. Add in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even cream cheese with herbs to make it your own.
Conclusion
Jalapeno Popper Wontons are the ultimate appetizer for anyone who loves the combination of creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos, all wrapped in a crispy wonton. With their easy preparation, versatility, and delicious flavor, these wontons are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you fry or bake them, you can enjoy a tasty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give these jalapeno popper wontons a try and watch them disappear in no time!
Serving and Storage Tips for Jalapeno Popper Wontons
Serving Tips:
- Dipping Sauces: Jalapeno Popper Wontons are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a dipping sauce. Classic options include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy buffalo sauce. For a fun twist, try pairing them with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce or a cilantro-lime dip.
- Garnish: Add a finishing touch by garnishing your wontons with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for added color and flavor. A light drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice also enhances the taste.
- Serving Platter: Arrange your wontons on a platter or serving dish in a circular shape for a fun presentation. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even as part of a larger meal. They pair well with other finger foods like chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
- Keep Them Hot: To keep your wontons warm while serving, place them on a serving tray lined with parchment paper in a low oven (around 200°F / 93°C) or use a chafing dish for a party or gathering.
Storage Tips:
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover jalapeno popper wontons, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will stay fresh and crispy if stored properly, though the texture may change slightly as they cool.
- Reheating:
- Oven: To restore their crispiness, reheat the wontons in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help them regain their crispy texture without becoming soggy.
- Air Fryer: You can also use an air fryer to reheat the wontons for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C). This is a great method for ensuring they stay crispy.
- Microwave: While convenient, microwaving may cause the wontons to lose their crispiness. If you choose to microwave, place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
- Freezing: To make these jalapeno popper wontons ahead of time, you can freeze them before cooking. After filling and sealing the wontons, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your jalapeno popper wontons at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or saving them for later!
1. Can I make jalapeno popper wontons ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the wontons ahead of time. Once filled and sealed, you can freeze them before cooking. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry or bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. How can I make jalapeno popper wontons less spicy? To reduce the heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping them. If you’d like even less heat, you can substitute the jalapenos with milder peppers like banana peppers or sweet bell peppers. Additionally, you can use a milder cheese like Monterey Jack instead of cheddar.
3. Can I bake jalapeno popper wontons instead of frying them? Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying. To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), arrange the filled wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with jalapeno popper wontons? Jalapeno popper wontons are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces. Popular options include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy buffalo sauce. You can also try barbecue sauce, sour cream, or a cilantro-lime dip for a refreshing twist.
PrintJalapeno Popper Wontons
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 wontons 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Fusion
Description
These Jalapeño Popper Wontons are crispy, creamy, and packed with spicy flavor! Stuffed with a cheesy jalapeño filling and fried to golden perfection, they make the ultimate party appetizer or game-day snack.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2–3 jalapeños, finely diced (adjust for spice level)
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the wontons:
- 20 wonton wrappers
- 1 large egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For garnish:
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
- Dipping sauce (ranch or sweet chili sauce recommended)
Instructions
1. Prepare the filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, bacon (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Assemble the wontons
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with the beaten egg.
- Fold the wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. For an extra secure seal, fold the corners together to create a “purse” shape.
3. Fry the wontons
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the wontons in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the wontons with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Serve
- Arrange the wontons on a platter, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Baking option: Brush the assembled wontons with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Spice level: For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.